Phlebotomy Technician Program prepares individuals, under the supervision of physicians and other health care professionals, to draw blood samples from patients using a variety of intrusive procedures.Phlebotomy Technician (phlebotomist) is an integral member of the medical laboratory team whose primary function is the collection of blood samples from patients by venipuncture or microtechniques. The phlebotomy technician facilitates the collection and transportation of laboratory specimens, and is often the patient's only contact with the medical laboratory. This programincludes instruction in basic vascular anatomy and physiology, blood physiology, skin puncture techniques, venipuncture, venous specimen collection and handling, safety and sanitation procedures, and applicable standards and regulations.

A phlebotomy technician also draws blood for transfusions, donations and research. Phlebotomy technicians must like challenge and responsibility. They must be accurate, work well under pressure and communicate effectively. They must be able to deal with patients and be able to calm patients. Safety is key and all safety precautions must be taken to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases. Duties differ by doctor office, hospital and laboratory.

Job Skills:

• Drawing blood from patients or donors in hospitals, blood banks, clinics, doctor offices, laboratories or similar facility for medical purposes;
• Assembles equipment such as needles, blood collection devices, gauze, tourniquet, cotton and alcohol;
• Verifies or records identity of patient or donor;
• Converses with patients to allay fear of procedure;
• Applies tourniquet to arm, locates vein, swabs area with disinfectant, and inserts needle into vein to draw blood into collection tube. (May also prick finger instead of inserting needle.);
• Labels and stores bold container for processing;
• May conduct interview, take vital signs and test blood samples to screen donors at a blood bank;
• Be able to analyze information and make appropriate recommendations.